A select few passengers on SWISS will soon be given an extra helping of luxury, thanks to its selection of new first-class cabin suites. The suites will be rolled out from the autumn, in a bid to bring a touch of private jet to commercial flying.
SWISS Senses suites to take off from autumn 2025
In a statement, SWISS - the only airline in the world to offer first class on all its long-haul routes - has announced that it will soon be offering a “luxury first class” suite as part of its Swiss Senses redesign. The new cabin will be rolled out across the airline’s set of Airbus A350 jets from the autumn of 2025, before being gradually introduced to its fleet of Boeing 777s.
Unlike the previous, more exposed seats, the new first class suite in the A350 is 2,4 square metres in size and boasts a secluded ambience and single and double beds depending on the booking. With its own internal walls, door and cabinet, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a hotel in Geneva, not cruising at 36.000 feet across the azure blue sky.
New first class to compete with "suite trend" among other airlines
The new cabin is seen as a response to other airlines around the world who have begun to launch their own “luxury experiences”. The biggest so far is La Première class on Air France, where passengers are chauffeur-driven to the plane and offered spa treatments, Michelin-star meals, designer pyjamas and a king-size bed.
However, this new luxury is reflected in the price. While SWISS told Watson in a statement that they didn’t know how much their new first class would cost, a seat on La Première class from Paris to Los Angeles costs 19.000 Swiss francs return, compared to “just” 9.000 francs on SWISS’ old first class from Zurich to Los Angeles.
Watson explained that, along with the new first-class suite and Premium Economy options, airlines are increasing the gap between cabin classes to appeal to all tastes, both in terms of service and price. SWISS told the newspaper that they hoped the new cabin would appeal to entrepreneurs and other magnates who would usually take a private jet, and those who want a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
"We are increasingly observing that our guests – especially in the premium segment – desire more exclusivity and individuality…we are doing everything we can to meet these expectations," SWISS concluded.